Obituary of David Friesen

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of our beloved father David H. Friesen on January 2, 2020 at his home.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Doris and their six children: Patti (Farley) Fries, Margie (Tom) Curtis, Lori (Randy) Vertone, Carol (Ron) Bachmeier, Kathy (Mark) Peters, David (Vanessa) Friesen, 19 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and one brother Abe (Martha) Friesen.

Dad was predeceased by his mother, father and 12 brothers and sisters.

Dad was born February 16, 1932 in Gretna, and in early September 1933 the family headed to their new home in the village of Osterwick. Dad shared many stories of his life on the farm.

Dad laid eyes on the love of his life Doris in 1949 while visiting friends on the farm. They were married in 1954.

Dad was baptized in 1954 and belonged to the Chortitzer Mennonite Church and later attended the Grace Mennonite Church. Dad's faith was strong. He always had messages that encouraged us to believe in Jesus. This was very important to him.

Dad started work on the family farm but always had the desire to venture to the big city. He secured a job based on his excellent work ethic at Winston Furriers where he acquired business connections and skills that created an opportunity for him to open the Steinbach Fabric Shop. He, together with our mom, successfully ran the fabric and drapery business for 37 years, building many meaningful business relationships. During their first 10 years they were also the Perth’s Dry Cleaning reps for south eastern Manitoba.

Dad was a humble, kind and gentle soul with a heart of gold. He was good natured with a unique sense of humour. Always a jokester! His easy going, friendly personality led to countless friendships.

Dad enjoyed competitive card and board games including cribbage, backgammon and chess. He belonged to a chess club and was a tough competitor. He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren the rules of the games but remained very competitive even with them. Dad was an avid coin collector and had a strong love for music. He would pick up his guitar at anytime to entertain his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With all his accomplishments in life his family was his greatest. He held a special place in his heart for each one of us. His 19 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren all had a special bond with their grandpa. He was a proud husband, father, grandpa and great-grandpa.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at Bothwell Christian Fellowship, New Bothwell, Manitoba. Viewing will take place at 12:00pm with interment to follow at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, MB.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of David H. Friesen may be made to Youth for Christ.